How NOT to Buy a Haunted House – Croskey Real Estate’s Guide to Spooky-Free Homes
As Halloween approaches, the last thing you want is to accidentally buy a haunted house! We’ve all heard the ghost stories – creepy whispers at midnight, flickering lights, and cold drafts that seem to follow you. If you’re not in the mood for a visit from Casper, here are our top tips to avoid moving into a haunted property.
1. Check the History
Before signing the dotted line, do some research! If the house has a long history of owners leaving after only a few months, or if it’s been on the market too long, you might have a spooky situation on your hands. Ask neighbors about strange happenings, and check for any unusual property history. Haunted houses usually have more stories than just creaky floors!
2. Unexplained Cold Spots
Is the air conditioning working overtime in one room while the rest of the house feels warm? This could be more than just a draft! Paranormal experts say sudden cold spots can be a sign that ghosts are lingering. So, if your dream home feels like you’re suddenly in Antarctica without warning, it might be time to rethink that offer.
3. Look for Unusual Marks or Symbols
If you walk into a basement and see strange symbols carved into the walls or floor, turn around and leave! While it could just be some artistic past owner, it’s best not to take your chances. Ghostly markings are often warning signs that paranormal forces are near. Stick to homes where the only things carved into the walls are happy memories!
4. Test for Paranormal Activity
Okay, maybe don’t bring a Ouija board to the open house… but pay attention to your gut feelings. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Pets are also great at detecting ghosts! If your dog suddenly refuses to enter a room, that’s a red flag!
5. Beware of Overly Quiet Houses
While a quiet neighborhood can be a dream, an overly silent house can feel unnerving. If you notice a lack of birds, animals, or even the usual sounds of a creaky house, it may indicate something ghostly is afoot.
6. Hire a Real Estate Agent Who Knows the Market
At Croskey Real Estate, we can help you avoid haunted houses (unless you’re looking for one! ). We know how to spot red flags, whether it’s a creaky old Victorian or a brand-new home with an eerie feel.
Don’t let your dream home turn into a nightmare on Elm Street. Instead, let us guide you to a safe (and ghost-free) purchase! Contact Croskey Real Estate today to make sure your new home only has living residents.
Happy house hunting and Happy Halloween!